SsangYong confirms plans to build electric ute, unveils EV SUV
As talk around electric utes and how far away they are for the Kiwi market continues, Korean firm SsangYong has announced plans to build a zero-emissions ute of its own while simultaneously unveiling its new electric SUV based on the Korando.
“Now starting with [the] Korando e-Motion [electric mid-size SUV], the company plans to expand its green car range with a mid-sized EV and EV pick-up,” the marque said during its overnight EV presentation.
All in all, SsangYong confirmed three EVs overnight; the ute, the Korando variant, and a new ‘J100’ large electric SUV. The latter was teased with an artist’s impression of how it may look, showing it leading the first-generation Musso and Korando.
The J100 is expected to launch in 2022 or 2023, with the electric ute tipped to come one or two years later. Dual motors, an 800kg payload in the ute, and towing abilities of more than two tonnes are all on the menu according to the announcement. No power outputs or other technical detail was confirmed.
The electric Korando, meanwhile, is called the Korando e-Motion. Initially teased to the world last July, the e-Motion gives the ordinary Korando’s conventional styling and wraps it in EV tropes.
The grilles are solid, the wheels are low-resistance jobbies designed to aid overall range abilities, and there are lots of little blue touches. The interior has yet to be revealed, but expect it to look somewhat similar to that of the standard internal combustion Korando.
According to European reports, the model utilizes a 61.5kWh lithium-ion battery and a single electric motor on the front axle, producing 140kW of power. According to home-market testing documents cited by other reports, range is rated at 306km. Expect its WLTP figures to fall in the ballpark of 365km.
“By renewing confidence in the brand, ensuring its survival in the rapidly changing automotive marketplace, and achieving future growth, SsangYong is aiming to quickly end the company’s rehabilitation procedures, and create an environment that leads to a successful M&A by looking for a new investor that will commit to continuous future investment,” said SsangYong in it’s statement.
“We are establishing a strong foothold for corporate rehabilitation through a successful M&A and putting our very best efforts into new car development by addressing the rapidly changing automotive trends,” added SsangYong Motors receiver Yong Won Chung.
“In addition, we are expanding the line-up of eco-cars, discovering future growth opportunities such as new business models, and preparing for renewed competitiveness.”
These dual releases come a day after the firm formally unveiled its new Musso ute (badged as a Rhino in New Zealand, lead picture). As revealed by previous leaks, the update includes a comprehensive switch-up to the front fascia, punctuated by a bold new grille.
Engines carry over from the outgoing model, meaning the 2.2-litre turbodiesel is back, with its 133kW of power and 400Nm of torque (420Nm if you get the automatic). The 2.0-litre 165kW/350Nm petrol is presumed to also return, too.
